Tying braid to a swivel securely is crucial for fishing success. While there are several knots effective for this purpose, one method involves specific steps for securing the knot, as outlined in the reference.
Securing Your Braid Knot to a Swivel
Based on the provided reference, the final steps for tying braid to a swivel involve specific actions to tighten and finish the knot. These steps typically follow the initial creation of the knot's structure around the swivel's eye.
Here’s a breakdown of the finishing process described:
- Thread Back Through: After forming the initial wraps and loop of the knot, you need to "Back up through the top." This step usually involves passing the tag end of the braid back through a specific loop created earlier in the knot structure (often the main loop or the loop closest to the swivel eye).
- Initial Tightening: Once the tag end is passed through correctly, you then "pull that tight" to begin seating the knot against the swivel eye.
- Lubricate the Knot: Before final tightening, it's important to "wet the knot." Lubricating the braid with saliva or water helps the knot slide and seat properly, reducing friction and preventing damage or weakening of the line during tightening. This is particularly important for braid due to its low stretch and tendency to cut itself under friction.
- Final Tightening: After wetting, you need to "pull that nice and tight." This final pull ensures the knot is fully cinched down onto the swivel eye, providing maximum strength and security.
- Trim the Excess: Finally, "cut off the tags." Use sharp scissors or line clippers to trim the excess tag end of the braid close to the knot, but be careful not to cut the main line. Leaving a small tag end (a few millimeters) can sometimes be beneficial, especially with knots that can slip slightly under pressure.
Following these steps helps ensure the braid knot is properly finished and secured to the swivel, creating a reliable connection.
